“While you are my guest, you may have anything you wish. Whatever clothes you desire; whatever food; a prayer rug and a place to pray; a place to exercise. Simply ask and it is yours. But I remind you, time is of the essence. Lives are at stake. Many, many lives.”

For all Doug Bacon’s cultured charm and geniality, Kazimi sensed a ferocity in him—a dark intensity and commitment to … to what? How was Bacon connected to the Doomsday Germ? It was clear from his bearing and the way he had orchestrated Kazimi’s kidnapping and imprisonment he was a powerful, utterly determined force. And for the first time in Kazimi’s life, his faith in Allah could not ablate his fear.

“I want the clothes I was wearing when you brought me here,” Kazimi said. It felt good to issue a command.

“As you wish,” Bacon said. “They are washed and folded. I’ll have Harris bring them to your room right away.”

“And then I demand to be escorted from these premises,” Kazimi said. “I will not assist you in any capacity. You will get nothing from me. Not one bit of my cooperation.”

Bacon returned an oddly inscrutable look that made Kazimi feel exposed and penetrated. It was as if the master of Red Cliff was surgically dissecting his personality, computing at lightning speed every thrust, and preparing a parry for it in advance. Controlling people was a game to him, Kazimi concluded, and one he played very well.

“I need your cooperation, so how about I offer you a deal,” Bacon said, breaking a pregnant silence. “If you agree to my terms you will be permitted to leave Red Cliff, I will even assist with your departure.”

“Go on.”

“As those who know me are aware, I am a betting man. I enjoy the rush of a good gamble. All that is required here is for you to best me in a battle of wits.”

“What is the subject matter of this battle?” Kazimi asked. “I am smart, but not in every area.”

Bacon’s face brightened. “Ah, doctor, that is part of the fun of this wager.” His drawl seemed to have become somewhat more pronounced. “You must agree to participate without knowing.”

“And if I refuse once the subject of our battle is known to me?”

“Then our wishes will become demands and you will simply comply with them. You will swear to accept this wager in Allah’s name.”

“I won’t do it.”

“I’m giving you a chance to walk away from here, Dr. Kazimi. The people I work with would not like this. Not one bit. Can you outsmart me in a game of wits? Naturally, I believe the answer is no. But will you not take a chance?”

Kazimi considered his options while eyeing the two powerful guards. It would be impossible to force his way out. His options were limited at best.